MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE:
The Senior Accountant is a critical role responsible for managing core accounting operations to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with financial standards. This role requires overseeing account reconciliations, financial reporting, and budget preparation to support data-driven decision-making and financial stability. The Senior Accountant actively collaborates with accounting teams, leads month-end and year-end close processes, and provides essential insights to improve financial policies and internal controls. A successful Senior Accountant brings both technical accounting expertise and team leadership skills to promote best practices and compliance with industry standards, particularly within the renewable energy sector.
KEY MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES :
- Financial Reporting and Analysis: Prepare, analyze, and present comprehensive financial statements and management reports, including profit and loss summaries, cash flow projections, and budget variance analyses
- Account Reconciliation and Ledger Management: Reconcile all key balance sheet accounts, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and the general ledger; manage month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely, accurate reporting
- Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist with budget preparation and revenue forecasting, tracking expenditures against budgets and identifying cost-saving opportunities relevant to a renewable energy context
- Audit and Compliance: Lead internal and external audits by providing accurate records, preparing tax returns, and addressing audit findings; ensure compliance with GAAP, tax laws, and renewable energy regulations
- Process Improvement and Control: Develop, document, and enforce accounting policies and procedures to improve efficiency, streamline operations, and strengthen internal controls
- Team Leadership and Mentorship: Supervise and support accounting assistants and junior accountants, providing training, assigning tasks, and conducting performance reviews to foster skill development within the team
- System and Process Development: Collaborate with the financial management team to assess, modify, and implement new or improved accounting systems, software, and tools to enhance financial procedures
Requirements
SKILLS:
- Technical Expertise: Proficient in GAAP standards, tax regulations, and financial compliance specific to the renewable energy sector
- Analytical Ability: Strong analytical skills with a proven track record of identifying financial discrepancies, improving spending efficiency, and ensuring accurate budget alignment
- Accounting Software Proficiency: Experienced with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, FreshBooks) and advanced MS Excel skills, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis tools
- Attention to Detail and Accuracy: High attention to detail with an ability to work accurately under deadlines and independently resolve complex accounting issues
- Leadership and Communication: Effective team leadership skills with the ability to mentor and guide junior staff; excellent verbal and written communication for liaising with internal stakeholders and presenting financial data clearly
EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE & QUALIFICATIONS:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; a master's degree is a plus
- Certifications: Relevant professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CMA) are highly preferred and may enhance candidacy
- Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive experience in accounting, ideally with experience managing accounting operations in renewable energy, utilities, or a related industry
- Technical Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of GAAP, tax laws, budgeting principles, and financial regulations, with specific insight into accounting practices for renewable energy projects or businesses
